New Cabinet Appointed

[george]

His Majesty appoints new Cabinet

His Majesty the King Wednesday signed a royal command to appoint the new Cabinet as following:

Prime Minister

Samak Sundaravej, also Defence Minister

Deputy Prime Minister

Somchai Wongsawat, also Education Minister

Mingkwan Saengsuwan, also Commerce Minister

Dr Surapong Suebwonglee, also Finance Minister

Suwit Khunkitti, also Industry Minister

Sahas Banditkul

Sanan Kachornprasart

PM's Office Minister

Chakrapob Penkair, also government spokesman

Deputy Finance Ministers

Pradit Pataraprasit

Ranongrak Suwanchawee

Foreign Minister

Noppadon Patama

Tourism and Sport Minister

Weerasak Kohsurat

Social Development and Human Security

Sutha Chansaeng

Agriculture Minister

Somsak Prissananantakul

Deputy Agriculture Ministers

Sompat Kaewpijit

Theerachai Saenkaew

Transportation Minister

Santi Prompat

Deputy Transportation Ministers

Songsak Thongsri

Anurak Jureemart

Natural Resources and Environment Minister

Anongwan Thepsutin

Information, Communication and Technology Minister

Mun Pattanothai

Deputy Commerce Minister

Wiroon Techapaiboon

Banyin Tangpaporn

Energy Minister

Poonpirom Liptapanlop

Interior Minister

Chalerm Yoobamrung

Deputy Interior Ministers

Supon Fongngam

Sithichai Kohsurat

-- The Nation 2008-02-06

[jbowman1993]

Minister of Justice?

Also, God help us all, Thaksin's lawyer is the new foreign minister. I have heard enough of that man's endless verbal diarrhea to last a lifetime.

[Tony Clifton]

Minister of Justice?

Also, God help us all, Thaksin's lawyer is the new foreign minister. I have heard enough of that man's endless verbal diarrhea to last a lifetime.

There's a very specific reason for this and it's going to blow up in their faces.

Edited February 6, 2008 by Tony Clifton

[A_Traveller]

BANGKOK, Feb 6 (TNA) - His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Wednesday urged Thailand’s 36-member Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, to follow its promise to work honestly for the nation.

Indicating that honesty is a sacred word, His Majesty told the assembled Cabinet members during a swearing-in ceremony at Chitrlada Palace that the prime minister and his Cabinet did not have to make such a promise but “now that you have shown your intention to work with honesty, you will have to follow it, otherwise it is not sacred.”

“We need adults to run the country. If you act like adults, the people will have someone to hold on to. Many countries in the world are in trouble because their peoples have no one to hold on to,” said the King.

“Your principle must be to work for the public interest. You may think it’s strange that 36 people will have to sacrifice for 63 million people. But 63 million people are hoping that their ministers will work for them. It’s an uphill mission but I believe you can do it for the people and they won’t be disappointed.”

“In other countries, we hardly see people who work for public interest but you have to do it. If you are successful in doing that, you will be very elegant and full of dignity. May you follow your oath and be honest for the sake of the country’s happiness,” His Majesty told the country's 57th Cabinet.

In a press conference at Government House after the ceremony, Mr. Samak said he would from now on be friendly and "talk sweetly" to the media.

The prime minister will chair the first Cabinet meeting on Friday. It is expected that the Cabinet will, among others, discuss the government’s policy statement to be submitted to the House of Representatives for deliberations.

Mr. Samak said it was finally decided that the economic responsibility, which he described as a mammoth task, will be jointly entrusted to Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee and Commerce Minister Mingkwan Saengsuwan. Both also hold concurrently posts of deputy prime minister.

He said Mingkwan will concentrate on finding revenues for the country while Surapong will oversee the country’s financial disciplines.

During the campaign for the December 23 general election, Mr. Mingkwan had always been branded as the People Power Party’s “economic czar.” The split of economic task between him and Mr.Surapong has lately been interpreted as a conflict between the two men.

Source MCOT English News Thai News Agency Update : 18:51:00 6 February 2008 (GMT+7:00)

Edited February 6, 2008 by A_Traveller

[A_Traveller]

BANGKOK, Feb 6 (TNA)—The line-up of Thailand’s 57th Cabinet was officially announced Friday in a move some critics seen as quid pro quo to allies of deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej, at the helm of the 36-member Cabinet, takes a concurrent post of defence minister, becoming the country’s third civilian to assume the influential task of overseeing the armed forces.

His two predecessors were late prime minister Seni Pramoj and former prime minister Chuan Leekpai, both attached to the Democrat Party. Mr. Samak, 72, entered politics under the Democrat banner before founding his own political party, Prachakorn Thai.

In the new line-up, the People Power Party (PPP) which has 236 MPs in the 480-seat House of Representatives undisputedly dominates the Cabinet.

It controls such powerful portfolios as defence, finance, foreign affairs, commerce, interior and justice. The crucial ministries all went to close allies, advisors and relatives of ex-premier Thaksin who has been in self-imposed exile abroad, mostly in London, since the Sept 2006 coup.

The finance portfolio went to PPP secretary general Surapong Suebwonglee who has been working with Thaksin for years and kept close contact with the former premier until these days.

Dr. Surapong, a medical science graduate and concurrently deputy prime minister, will jointly oversee the country’s economic issues, with marketing-oriented Mingkwan Saengsuwan, deputy prime minister and commerce minister.

Prime Minister Samak, claiming that economy is too big a task for just one person, said Dr. Surapong will see to it that the country’s financial discipline is followed while Mr. Mingkwan will concentrate on making money for the country.

Comparing the Cabinet to a private company, Surapong said he will be the country’s CFO (chief finance officer) while Mr. Mingkwan will be the CMO (chief marketing officer).

Oxford-educated Noppadol Pattama, Thaksin’s top legal advisor who admitted fear for his own life in the past year, was named foreign minister—a crème-de-la-crème portfolio considered a reward for his trustworthiness and loyalty to him.

Sharp-tongued Chalerm Yoobamrung, another close ally of Thaksin who announced before the December 23 general election that he flew to London to discuss his political future with the ex-premier, becomes interior minister while the justice post went to Sompong Amornwiwat, Thaksin’s boyhood classmate.

Thaksin’s brother-in-law, Somchai Wongsawat, was appointed education minister in addition to another post as deputy prime minister.

Three other deputy premiers are Maj. Gen. Sanan Kachornprasart of Chart Thai Party, Suwit Khunkitti of Puea Pandin Party and Sahas Banditkul, Samak’s close ally and a PPP lawmaker.

It was reported that Samak earlier put Sahas in the transport portfolio but was rejected and replaced by Santi Prompat, a close friend of a minister in the Thaksin government.

The ministerial posts in tourism and sports, and agriculture went to the Chart Thai Party while three smaller parties in the coalition--Machimathipataya, Ruamjaithai Chart Pattana and Pracharaj--were allocated deputy ministership in finance, commerce and labour.

Source MCOT English News Thai News Agency Update : 19:54:34 6 February 2008 (GMT+7:00) Edited February 6, 2008 by A_Traveller

[John K]

The crony list. Enough said.

[traveller5000]

Minister of Justice?

Also, God help us all, Thaksin's lawyer is the new foreign minister. I have heard enough of that man's endless verbal diarrhea to last a lifetime.

There's a very specific reason for this and it's going to blow up in their faces.

what is he/ are you referring to ?

[A_Traveller]

I won't presume to know what others think, but the new Foreign Minister is viewed by many as having abused his privileges, and is being rewarded to encourage {discourage} the others. Panitan Wattanayagorn, a political science lecturer at Chulalongkorn University commented that 'people who acted aggressively against the coup are now being rewarded openly. This needs to happen otherwise people won’t risk their lives for Thaksin the next time'. I take the view that's more about livelihood by the by.

I seem to recall he was a secretary in the Foreign Ministry in 2000, but I may be mistaken.

Regards

PS Those who want to rummage in the connexions can try this link

/edit typo + PS//

Edited February 6, 2008 by A_Traveller

[Tony Clifton]

Minister of Justice?

Also, God help us all, Thaksin's lawyer is the new foreign minister. I have heard enough of that man's endless verbal diarrhea to last a lifetime.

There's a very specific reason for this and it's going to blow up in their faces.

what is he/ are you referring to ?

I'm not saying I know what the specific reason is, there just is, we'll know soon enough.

They don't value this country's foreign relations very much when Thaksin's own lawyer and mouthpiece is appointed Foreign Minister only for the purpose of somehow serving the Little Emperor in exile. God knows what ridicule and shame these two are about to add on top of the pile this country has already accumulated.

60 other million Thais and he was the only suitable candidate?

[The Dan Sai Kid]

What was that line by The Who:

Meet the new boss, same as the old boss...

[younghusband]

The crony list. Enough said.

Weren't you the one constantly reminding us that the junta's puppet government had been endorsed at the highest level? What's different now?

[sriracha john]

A common refrain one will hear at a professional baseball game is :

"Get yer programs here, get yer programs here... ya can't tell the players without a program...so get yer programs here... only 5 dollars"

Prime Minister

Samak Sundaravej (CW), also Defence Minister

Deputy Prime Minister

Somchai Wongsawat (RP), also Education Minister

Mingkwan Saengsuwan, also Commerce Minister

Dr Surapong Suebwonglee (CW), also Finance Minister

Suwit Khunkitti (NB), also Industry Minister

Sahas Banditkul (SA)

Sanan Kachornprasart (PB)

PM's Office Minister

Chakrapob Penkair (CW) (NR), also government spokesman

Deputy Finance Ministers

Pradit Pataraprasit (NRO)

Ranongrak Suwanchawee (RP)

Foreign Minister

Noppadon Patama (NR)

Tourism and Sport Minister

Weerasak Kohsurat

Social Development and Human Security

Sutha Chansaeng (NRO)

Agriculture Minister

Somsak Prissananantakul

Deputy Agriculture Ministers

Sompat Kaewpijit

Theerachai Saenkaew (NB)

Transportation Minister

Santi Prompat (NR)

Deputy Transportation Ministers

Songsak Thongsri (NB)

Anurak Jureemart (NB)

Natural Resources and Environment Minister

Anongwan Thepsutin (RP)

Information, Communication and Technology Minister

Mun Pattanothai

Deputy Commerce Minister

Wiroon Techapaiboon

Banyin Tangpaporn (NB)

Energy Minister

Poonpirom Liptapanlop (RP)

Interior Minister

Chalerm Yoobamrung (VD)

Deputy Interior Ministers

Supon Fongngam (NB)

Sithichai Kohsurat (FV)

-- The Nation 2008-02-06

News Legend

CW : Crime-Watch (with ongoing criminal litagation)

RP : Related Proxy (by blood or marriage to a banned politico)

NR : Not Related (a close Thaksin associate that isn't RP)

NRO : Not Related Other (a close associate of Thaksin's inner circle, eg. Newin, Sudarat)

NB : Not Banned (a TRT'er who bailed out before the banning date)

PB : Previously Banned (completed their banning period)

FV : Forgery Victim (accused PPP of forging his signature on party membership list)

SA : Samak Aide (self-explanatory)

VD : Very Dodgy (doesn't fall into any of above categories, but nevertheless is...)

=======================================

Cabinet Ministers NOT Listed Above

Deputy Health Minister

Chaovarat Chanweerakul (RP)

Science Minister

Wutthipong Chaisang (RP)

Deputy Education Minister

Pongsakorn Annopporn (NB)

PM's Office Minister (in addition to the previously listed PM's Office Minister)

Choosak Sirinin (NR)

Justice Minister

Sompong Amornwiwat (NB)

[sriracha john]

Minister of Justice?

It wasn't listed in OP, but see above

[sriracha john]

Substantial information to the previously posted abbreviations on the proxies, thieves, and unqualifieds...

PROFILES

Who's who in Samak Cabinet?

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej finally gets his 35 Cabinet members yesterday. Amid criticism over their ability to be playing key roles in the new administration, they are captured into three categories displaying their origins.

The first group is made up of nominees of the 111 banned Thai Rak Thai Party executives. Loyalists of deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra make up the second while the third consists of representatives of the coalition.

Nominee group

Somchai Wongsawat: Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister

All his life served as judge, but his name involved in politics because of he is husband of Yaowapa (TRT Banned #13), younger sister of ousted prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra (TRT Banned #1). He decided to quit from being Justice Ministry Permanent Secretary after the coup. The brother-in-law of Thaksin Shinawatra entered to People Power Party as Deputy leader. He is said to be a nominee of Thaksin and might take the premiership if Samak Sundaravej could not run the job. Yet, he always denied this. Earlier he was considered for the Justice Minister, he was afraid of criticism that he will cling to power because the ministry is involving the Thaksin cases. He, therefore, took the Education Minister position. Somchai, 60, graduated in law from Thammasat University and a master degree in Public Administration from National Institute of Development Administration (NIDA).

Poonpirom Litapanlop: Energy Minister

Wife of seasoned politician Suwat Litapanlop (TRT Banned #22) who has been banned from politics for five years. Holds a master degree in chemistry from Kasetsart University and has served with the Army where she served as a lecturer until her early retirement in which she achieved the rank of Lieutenant General. She was also an advisor to the National Defence College. Poonpirom entered politics in 2006 and a friend describes her as an energy conservationist nut.

Anongwan Thepsuthin: Natural Resources and Environment Minister

Anongwan Thepsuthin, 49, is the wife of former Wang Nam Yom faction leader Somsak Thepsuthin (TRT Banned #18). She was believed to be Somsak's "nominee" after he was banned from politics with the dissolution of Thai Rak Thai (TRT) party. Wang Nam Yom members including Anongwan left TRT after the coup. They later formed the Matchima Thipataya party to run in the last election. After serving as a teacher and education ministry official for 20 years, Anongwan entered politics in 2001 by running under the TRT banner in her hometown of Sukhothai and won the poll. She also ran for election in 2005 and was again victorious. She had to guide Matchima because her husband and founder of the party, could not. She was promoted to be its Secretary-General to contest the December 23 election. Anongwan led her party to tie up with PPP after the election results were announced. She is set to become a minister in the Samak government, with the firm backing of Somsak, who is familiar with PPP's membership. Matchima's former Leader Prachai Leophairatana quit the party on December 4 when he submitted his resignation, although he later changed his mind. When the Election Commission affirmed by ruling that Prachai was no longer Party Leader, it paved the way for Anongwan to nominate candidates for ministerial posts.

Chaovarat Chanweerakul: Deputy Health Minister

He is father or Anuthin Chanweerakul (TRT Banned #57), one of 111 Thai Rak Thai Party executives who has been banned from politics. That is why Aunthin sends his father to become Deputy Health Minister, the position he had helmed earlier. However, Chaovarat is not new to politics. He once served as Deputy Finance Minister in Chavalit government under the quota of Chart Pattana Party.

Wutthipong Chaisang: Science Minister

Wutthipong, 49, Chachoengsao MP, the younger brother of Chaturon Chaisang (TRT Banned #2), the former Thai Rak Thai party caretaker who was banned from politics for five years. Chaturon pushed for his brother to get his first ministerial post. Wutthipong entered politics by becoming a Constitution drafter representing Chachoengsao and joined the Constitution drafting panel in 1997. He fully entered politics after winning an MP seat in Chachoengsao under the banner of Thai Rak Thai Party. He was made Secretary to the Deputy Industry Minister.

Ranongrak Suwanchawee: Deputy Finance Minister

Ranongrak was elected as a senator from Nakhon Ratchasima, but was not endorsed because of the coup. Her husband Pairoj (TRT Banned #69) - a veteran politician and executive of the now defunct Thai Rak Thai Party who was banned from politics for five years - sent her and their son to contest the Korat seats under the Puea Pandin Party. Both won. Ranongrak entered the Samak Cabinet as a Deputy Finance Minister with the help of her husband Pairoj and the cooperation of Baan Rim Nam faction leader Suchart Tancharoen (TRT Banned #20). Now 51, she graduated in nursing from Mahidol University.

Suphol Fongngam: Deputy Interior Minister

Suphol was a member of the inner circle of Wang Nam Yen faction leader Snoh Thienthong (TRT Non-Banned #1) before moving to become a close aide of Newin Chidchob (TRT Banned #6), whose backing helped him secure a place in the Samak Cabinet. Suphol has served several terms as an MP from Ubon Ratchathani, but his new job as Deputy Interior Minister will be his first time in the Cabinet. The 45-year-old has bachelor's degree in law from Sripatum University and a master's degree in social environmental development from the National Institute of Development Administration.

Teerachai Saenkaew: Deputy Agriculture Minister

A member of the Wang Nam Yom faction and an outspoken MP in ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra's now defunct Thai Rak Thai party, Teerachai would defend his party leader against criticism from opponents. A Thaksin loyalist, he stayed with the Thai Rak Thai when his faction leader, Somsak Thepsuthin (TRT Banned #18), jumped party last year's coup. The 51-year-old politician from Udon Thani switched allegiance to the Newin group, a decision that paid off because he got the job of Deputy Agriculture Minister with Newin's backing. He has a master's degree in social administration from Thammasat University.

Songsak Thongsri: Deputy Transport Minister

Fifty-year-old Songsak was a member of the Buriram province MP clique that is led by Newin Chidchob. He has been an MP six times and is now representing Newin, in the new cabinet. Newin was banned from politics for five years by the Constitution Tribunal along with 110 other former Thai Rak Thai party executives. Songsak holds a master degree in political science from Eastern Asia University and was assistant secretary to Minister of Finance and Minister of Education in the past.

Pongsakorn Annopporn: Deputy Education Minister

Pongsakorn, 47, was a Chart Pattana MP for Khon Kaen three times before moving to the Thai Rak Thai Party. He did not contest the December 23 election, nominating his wife Duangkae to run for the Khon Kaen seat instead. Even though he is not an MP, he was backed to become Deputy Education Minister by banned former Thai Rak Thai member Newin Chidchob.

Pongsakorn has a master's degree in political science from Ramkhamhaeng University.

Santi Promphat: Transport Minister

Aged 56, Santi has been on the shortlist for the post since early January and was the only one who was not dropped from the list for the ministry. He first entered politics a decade ago as MP for Petchaboon province under the then New Aspiration Party and is one of the major financiers for the party leader Chaovalit Yongchaiyuth. Santi was advisor to the Interior and Transport Minister. As a major real estate tycoon with connections to Thaksin Shinawatra, he was entrusted by Thaksin due to his generous financial contribution and was given the responsibility to oversee MPs in the upper central region and some of the northeastern provinces. Between 2001 to 2005, he failed to secure a ministerial post, but the 19 September 2006 coup eventually gave him the opportunity with higher profile politicians from the TRT being banned from politics.

Sutha Chansaeng: Social Development and Human Security Minister

Sutha, 48, is a former Bangkok MP and close aide to Sudarat Keyuraphan (TRT Banned #3). He has followed Sudarat since the Palang Dhamma Party, and she has backed him politically as deputy Bangkok group leader and Secretary-General to the Finance minister. Sutha was one of nine PPP candidates to win in Bangkok in the December 23 election, so it is no surprise Sudarat has endorsed him to take the Social Development and Human Security Ministry in order to maintain her support base in the capital.

Thaksin's loyalist

Mingkwan Saengsuwan: Deputy Premier and Commerce Minister

Mingkwan is expected to execute what could be billed as an "improved" version of Thaksin-styled populist policies. A former director of the Mass Communication Organisation of Thailand and senior executive of Toyota Thailand, Mingkwan has a daunting task on his hands in managing the upward pressure on prices of necessity goods under the commerce ministry's supervision. Mingkwan will also have to help exporters manage the fallout of the US sub-prime loan crisis which could lead to a slower growth of Thai shipments to the huge American market later this year. As Deputy Premier and Commerce Minister, he is also likely to play a key role in revitalising the tourism sector or promoting the plantation of agriculture crops, which could be used as raw materials for gasohol or biodiesel. Earlier, he asserted that the tourism industry has the potential to generate as much as 1.5 Trillion Baht, or 4.2 times more than its present revenue of 350 Billion Baht per year, so the new government should turn its attention to tourism as a major source of revenue and as a driving force of the economy. Mingkwan also wants Suvarnabhumi to be the country's only international airport and Don Muang airport to handle only domestic flights and serve as an air cargo or as a lowcost airline hub. Calling "Thaksinomics" the original brand of populism, Mingkwan said a new and better version has been concocted and he claimed that there would be wider opportunities and more public funding for the grassroots population, the key supporters of the People Power Party in the Dec 23, 2007 election.

Chalerm Yoobumrung: Interior Minister

Chalerm has been a candidate for Interior Minister since he joined the People Power Party. The deal was allegedly closed after Chalerm flew to England to meet with deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra and his wife Pojaman in Manchester in mid-2007. Chalerm has been an ally of Thaksin since the ousted premier entered politics. His heyday was during the government of the late Prime Minister Chatchai Choonhavan. He was a minister and Chatchai's close aide who challenged defiant commanders of the armed forces. Chalerm allegedly eavesdropped on their communication, as his boss suspected they were attempting to stage a coup. The rift led to the coup of February 1991, forcing Chalerm and his family to flee and live in exile for almost a year in Sweden and Denmark. Chalerm was close to becoming a Cabinet member in the early years of PM Thaksin, if his youngest son had not been involved in a pub shooting that caused the death of a police officer. Chalerm refused to accept the post after the incident. He returned to politics when he ran for Bangkok governor in 2004 - but lost to Democrat candidate Apirak Kosayodhin.

Choosak Sirinin: PM's Office Minister

A legal adviser to the defunct Thai Rak Thai Party and deposed prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, Choosak Sirinin was one of the people who stood up to fight against the party's dissolution. Even though Choosak seemed to keep a low profile, he proved to be reliable enough to be made legal adviser to the People Power Party and is now serving as the party's Deputy Secretary-General. Before taking over as PM's Office Minister, Choosak was expected to become House Speaker, but instead he handed the post over to Yongyuth Tiyapairat. Choosak, 59, earned a master's degree in Comparative Law from Southern Methodist University in Dallas, USA.

Sompong Amornwiwat: Justice Minister

A several-time MP from Chiang Mai, Sompong has previously headed several ministries, including labour, industry and the PM's Office Ministry. After the Thai Rak Thai Party was dissolved and its 111 executives banned from politics last May, the 66-year-old played the role of "big brother" by chairing a panel to screen new executives for the ad hoc Thai Rak Thai Group. Sompong did not play a significant role in the party while Thaksin Shinawatra was in power, which turned out to be good for him because he was not banned from politics like the party's executives. After the People Power Party was established as a base for former Thai Rak Thai members, Sompong volunteered to become Deputy Party Leader and was temporarily appointed chairman of the government whip.

Noppadon Pattama: Foreign Minister

More recently the Shinawatra family's legal adviser, Noppadon Pattama joined the Thai Rak Thai Party because the then Natural Resources and Environment minister Yongyuth Tiyapairat invited him to reform the law during the Thaksin administration. Noppadon was Assistant Minister to Yongyuth for 89 days before the coup that ousted Thaksin. Soon afterwards, he resurfaced to represent the Shinawatra clan. He became famous for using the phrase: "As the Shinawatra family's legal adviser" in published statements to defend Thaksin when the ex-PM was accused of wrongdoing. A prominent case was when the Assets Examination Committee (AEC) moved to freeze Thaksin's assets worth 7.3 Billion Baht. He lashed out at the AEC everyday. He earned a master's degree in law at Thammasat Universityand a master's degree in bar council at Lincoln's Inn, Oxford University. He was once appointed secretary to former Democrat leader Chuan Leekpai when Chuan was opposition leader. Noppadon and Yongyuth were former Democrat Party MPs.

Surapong Suebwonglee: Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister

Surapong is a co-founder of the defunct Thai Rak Thai Party and a member of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra's inner circle. He was with Thaksin in New York on September 19, 2006, when the coup occurred, but kept a low profile after returning to Thailand the following month. Surapong had appeared set to return to the private sector, but saw an opportunity to continue his political career after the People Power Party was formed. A former government spokesman and minister, he was made Party Secretary-General. Surapong was expected to take an important job if the party won the election, however, no one expected he would be made head of the Samak government's economic team. Surapong was involved in implementation of the Bt30 national health scheme, and initially served as Deputy Public Health Minister. But a conflict with key TRT members prompted Thaksin to make him Information and Communications Technology (ICT) Minister. After failing to secure a Cabinet seat in the Thaksin II administration, he decided to leave politics to help run a slimming centre business with his wife. However, he returned to politics as government spokesman before Thaksin's government was overthrown by the coup. Now 50, Surapong has a medical degree from Mahidol University. He is one of The "Tula (October) people" - a student involved in the October 1973 who had to flee to the jungle after the crackdown in October 1976. He said recently he would phase out his business career in order to take up a full-time role in the new government.

Jakrapob Penkair: PM's Office Minister and Government Spokesman

Jakrapob Penkair is better known as a celebrity, especially after his work as a presenter for the APEC Summit hosted in Thailand in 2003. His performance during APEC impressed then prime minister Thaksin Shinawatra, who asked Jakrapob to serve as a government spokesperson. He has since developed a reputation for being outspoken, mainly because he always stood up to speak to journalists, sometimes even on behalf of other government officials. At one point, Thaksin even said his spokesman had spoken out of turn. This comment came after Jakrapob publicly declared that the European Union had agreed to restore preferential tariffs for Thai shrimp exports in exchange for the purchase of an Airbus aircraft. Jakrapob ran in the 2005/2006 elections, but failed. However, Thaksin appointed him as Deputy Secretary-General to Prime Minister in 2006. When the Thai Rak Thai Party was dissolved, he and other loyal aides of Thaksin set up a cable TV station called Public Television (PTV) to broadcast their sentiment against the junta. Later, PTV members rallied against the Council for National Security (CNS), and created the Democracy Alliance Against Dictatorship group. Jakrapob and other anti-coup leaders were detained for two weeks over charges of leading an unauthorised rally outside the residence of Privy Council Gen Prem Tinsulanonda, which erupted into a riot last July. Jakrapob, 41, has a bachelor's degree in political science from Chulalongkorn University, and a master's from John Hopkins University in the USA. After completing his education, he started his career with the Charoen Pokphand (CP) group, before resigning to serve as an official diplomat and then a television host.

Party representatives

Sompat Kaewpichit: Deputy Agriculture Minister

Sompat, 46, has a degree in political science from Thammasat University and an MBA in management from the USA. He entered politics under the Chart Thai Party banner and won in three elections. Sompat, who served Secretary to the Agriculture Minister in 1998, was chosen to become Deputy Agriculture Minister after Kamol Jiraphanwanitch decided not to take the position due to possible violation of the conflict of interest law.

Sanan Kachornprasart: Deputy Prime Minister

Sanan decided to leave the Mahachon Party for Chart Thai Party a few months before the December 23 election. His heyday was when he was Secretary-General of the Democrat Party in the 1990s. He played a key role in coordinating with other political factions to back Democrat Leader Chuan Leekpai to become the Prime Minister for two terms. In 1997, after Chavalit Yongchaiyudh resigned following the economic crisis, Sanan succeeded in lobbying 12 MPs of the Prachakorn Thai Party under Samak Sundaravej to switch sides to support Chuan to be the new premier. However, Sanan was banned from assuming political posts for five years after the Constitution Court in 2000 found him guilty of hiding his assets. He quit the posts of Interior Minister and the Party's Secretary-General. Despite his departure, he still had influence in the Democrat Party. He backed Banyat Bantadtan to become the Democrat leader, defeating Abhisit Vejjajiva. A row with the Abhisit faction forced him to quit the party again after a short return as the party's director for election campaigns. He decided to launch the Mahachon Party in mid-2004 to run the 2005 poll, but won just two of the 500 MP seats.

Suwit Khunkitti: Deputy Prime Minister and Industry Minister

Suwit is a former minister and executive of the disbanded Thai Rak Thai (TRT) Party. He was not among the banned TRT executives because he quit the post in 2005, after he resigned as the Information and Communications Technology Minister, due to health reasons. In mid-2007, following the coup of September 19, 2006, Suwit joined banned TRT member Surakiart Sathirathai (TRT Banned #21) to form the Puea Pandin Party. The new political group, allegedly having close ties with the coupmakers, aimed to undermine the stronghold of the People Power Party under deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra's shadow in the North and Northeast. But the party won only 24 seats. Moreover, Suwit failed to win a seat in his hometown of Khon Kaen. He decided to join the PPP-led coalition as the only way to get into government.

Uraiwan Thienthong: Labour Minister

Uraiwan is a former Labour and Culture Minister in the government of deposed premier Thaksin Shinawatra. She is the wife of influential Snoh Thienthong, Leader of the Pracharaj Party. She is recognised as a nominee of Snoh, who did not want to take the post himself after he had a row with Thaksin in the now disbanded Thai Rak Thai Party.

Banyin Tangphakorn: Deputy Commerce Minister

A close aide to Somsak Thepsuthin and Deputy Leader for the Matchima Thipataya Party, Banyin Tangphakorn served in the police force before entering politics in 2001 as a Thai Rak Thai member. He won in Nakhon Sawan during the 2001 elections and again in 2005. Banyin won the post of Deputy Commerce Minister by pure luck this time because the main contender Sunthorn Wilawan, another Matchima Thaipataya Party member, ended up being issued a red card. Banyin, 46, completed his master's degree in Business Administration from Naresuan University

Man Pattanotai: Information and Communication Technology Minister

The Puea Pan Din Party Deputy Leader rose to the position with the support of the Party's senior advisor Vattana Asavahem of whom Man has been a longtime close aide. Man is 67-years-old and graduated in law at Thammasat University. He also gained an MA in International Relations and an PhD in Political Science from the USA. He has many years of political experience having served as a Samut Prakarn MP four times.

Anusorn Wongwan: Culture Minister

Phrae MP Anusorn, 56, has served as a Deputy Minister for Industry, Interior and Labour. He is a son of the late Samakkhi Tham Party (Unity Party) leader Narong Wongwan. Anusorn earned a master's degree in engineering in the USA in 1974.

Virun Techapaibul: Deputy Commerce Minister

Virun, 65, earned a business administration degree from Hawthorn University, USA, and a master degree on corporate finance from Sasin Graduate School. Born into an old established family, Virun started his career as chairman and director of companies run by the family. His high point was being president of the World Trade Centre, the developer of World Trade Centre which was later sold to Central Group due to huge losses. He was also a Director of the State Railways of Thailand in 2003. Virun joined politics in 1991 when he emerged as an MP before becoming a senator in 1992. From 1997-2000, he joined several House committees dealing with economic issues including trade and the special economic zone in the South. In 2001, he was the advisor to then PM's Office Minister Krasae Chanawong and two years later advisor to then Finance Minister Varathep Ratanakorn.

Sahat Banditkul: Deputy Prime Minister

The 57-year-old former Deputy Bangkok Governor is a close relative of Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej's wife, Khunying Surat. Sahat has served as an adviser to Samak since he was Transport Minister in a Prem government. Samak always brought Sahat into any ministry he headed, and when he rose to become Bangkok Governor, Sahat was made First Deputy Governor.

Sithichai Kowsurat: Deputy Interior Minister

Graduated with bachelor degree from Ramkhamhaeng University, Sithichait, 48, was in local politics being Ubon Ratchathani provincial councilor before becoming an Ubon Ratchathani MP in 1995. Sithichai is the brain child of Preecha Laohapongchana (TRT Banned #68), one of Puea Pandin Party Leaders, who is among 111 Thai Rak Thai Party executives banned from politics. Sithichai was Assistant Secretary to Industry Minister and Finance Minister. He is a key suspect in the case that the People Power Party's political registrar was accused of falsifying his name to apply as PPP member. If investigators find grounds, the party could be dissolved.

Anurak Jureemas: Deputy Transport Minister

Former Roi Et MP for several times and Chart Thai Party Deputy Leader. He is a close aide of Chart Thai Party Leader Banharn Silapaarcha. He will served as a minister because of Banharn. In the Samak cabinet's quota for Chart Thai Party, Anurak was expected to become a minister definitely. The 47-year-old used to be Deputy Industry Minister, Deputy Agriculture Minister, Social Development and Human Security Minister and Culture Minister. Anurak completed a bachelor degree in Law from Ramkhamhaeng University.

Chaiya Sasomsap: Public Health Minister

Now 55, he was an MP since 1995 and even took Deputy Transport Minister in 2001. Newin Chidchob has backed his ministerial position. His family is known as Nakhon Pathom's godfather because the Sasomsap family members are politicians and ruled the election's Nakhom Pathom seats for a long time.

Boonlue Prasertsopha: Education Minister

Aged 40 and a two-time MP of Ratchaburi province. He was awarded an outstanding MP by the parliament for having never failed to attend a house session for a period of four years. This caught the eyes of Thaksin and Boonlue was promoted to Assistant Secretary to the Interior Minister. Boonlue graduated from Mahidhol University with a masters degree in Appropriate technology for Resources Development. Before entering politics he was a journalist for Khao Sod and Baan Muang newspapers.

Somsak Prissanananthakul: Agriculture Minister

Somsak, 57, and right-hand man of Chart Thai Party Leader Banharn Silapaarcha. Chart Thai Party Deputy Leader Somsak Prissanananthakul received a Bachelor's Degree from Ramkhamhaeng University's Faculty of Political Sciences and Master Degree from Thammasat University's Faculty of Political Sciences. He had been an MP of Ang Thong province under the banner of Chart Thai Party for eight terms. In 1995, Banharn appointed him to the post of government spokesman, the job that catapulted him into the media spotlight. During the Chuan 2 administration, Somsak was appointed Education Minister in 1999 and rose to become the First Deputy House Speaker in 2001. He made his name by carrying out his role with neutrality. A highly-trusted aide of Banharn, Somsak can speak on behalf of Banharn on every occasion whenever the party or Banharn himself is hit by adverse publicity.

Pradit Pattaraprasit: Deputy Finance Minister

Pradit, 53 was in the hotel and kitchen-ware business before joining the Democrat Party. Then Democrat Party Secretary-General Sanan Kachornprasart persuaded him to run as Phichit MP candidate under the banner of the Democrat Party in 1995, which he won and again in the following year. He was appointed chairman for the House committee on sports. In 1997, when former Prime Minister General Chavalit Yongchaiyudh stepped down and the Democrats led the coalition government, Pradit was appointed Deputy Transport Minister. In 1999, when Sanan was banned from politics for five years for declaring false assets to the National Counter Corruption Commission, Pradit was nominated as the Party caretaker Secretary-General. Sanan tried to angle Pradit into his place, but failed because former Democrat Party Leader Chuan Leekpai appointed former Interior Ministry Permanent Secretary Aant Anantakul to the post. In 2005, the Democrats saw a change of the party management, Banyat Bantadtan was voted as the new Party Leader and Pradit was appointed the Party Secretary-General. He came up with then "hot" debt moratorium policy under the name "Itaen Plee Cheep" to compete with the Thai Rak Thai Party in Isaan. After the September 2007 coup, Pradit made headlines again after the left the Democrats in the middle of election campaigning and established a new political group, Ruam Jai Thai Party, which later merged with Suwat Liptapanlop's group and established the Ruam Jai Thai Chart Pattana Party to compete in the December 23 election. Pradit became the Party Secretary-General.

Weerasak Kowsurat: Tourism and Sports Minister

Weerasak, 43, he was regarded as the person who helped upgrade the Chart Thai Party's image to be more modern, with his master's law degree from Harvard Law School in the USA. Chart Thai Party had always been looked local to the public. Weerasak has taken over the responsibility of the party's protocol and legal affairs and is not shy in offering his vision. In 1995-1996 when Banharn was appointed PM, Weerasak was made Deputy PM Secretary-General and in 2002-2003, was appointed advisor to the Social Development and Human Security Minister during the Thaksin I government.

- The Nation

Edited February 7, 2008 by sriracha john

[Ricardo]

Mr. Samak said it was finally decided that the economic responsibility, which he described as a mammoth task, will be jointly entrusted to Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee and Commerce Minister Mingkwan Saengsuwan. Both also hold concurrently posts of deputy prime minister.

He said Mingkwan will concentrate on finding revenues for the country while Surapong will oversee the country’s financial disciplines.

Source MCOT English News Thai News Agency Update : 18:51:00 6 February 2008 (GMT+7:00)

Perhaps he might usefully hunt for high-profile elite tax-evaders from 2006 ? Or perhaps not ...

[sriracha john]

They've already been "found" and there have been billions in baht frozen. Just need now to get them turned over to the National Treasury.

[Plus]

The Cabinet is a national embarassment. I bet that's how Samak felt when he presented it to the King.

[sriracha john]

The Lead Quack calling his own cabinet, "ugly ducklings," speaks volume.

Edited February 7, 2008 by sriracha john

[geriatrickid]

Bearing in mind that I welcomed this new government and do not share the same biases against the deposed PM and his group as others do. Overall, not particularly good news from my perspective. I'd even call it the start of the dark ages. I feel for those people that work in the respective ministries and am now very worried about the direction of Thailand.

Wutthipong Chaisang: Science Minister

Ok, so no background in science or technology. To the best of my knowledge never involved with the implementation or development of scientific infrastructure. Most countries appoint someone at this level who has either worked in an industry related field or has a strong academic background.

Chaiya Sasomsap: Public Health Minister

A professional politician. To the best of my knowledge, no work experience or academic credentials. Quite a contrast between this new minister and the former minister who was a well respected physician that had an advanced education and had worked in the field getting his hands dirty as a Chief Medical Officer. The old minister could call any foreign health minister or health authority and have his call taken right away. That's how well regarded he was. I have a bad feeling that if the new minister calls up the WHO or CDC, he will be put on hold and have to listen to the Macarena.

I hope someone tells me I have it all wrong. I really wish someone would.

[sriracha john]

To try an put a positive spin on that... at least having no knowledge whatsoever and not having even the slightest previous connection to their respective field specialities.... it's less likely these ministers will have a conflict of interest issue being in charge of a field in which they have long-time family financial vested interests...

sorry, I know it's not much, but that's the best I could come up... this lot doesn't give one much to work with...

Anyway, for other ministers this conflict of interest is a real concern...

Samak Cabinet starts work

Prime Minister Samak Sundaravej and his newly-appointed Cabinet kicked off their first day in office on Chinese New Year.

Deputy Prime Minister and Education Minister Somchai Wongsawat said he expected Samak would assign work to his deputies within a few days.

Deputy Prime Minister Sanan Kachornprasart said he was ready to be in charge of security if Samak assigned him. "The security matter mainly involves the violence in the south which I had earlier been in charge a few times,'' he said.

PM's Office Minister Choosak Sirinin said he believed he would be given responsibility to oversee agencies that involve legal work such as the Council of State, Office of the Civil Service Commission.

Asked if he thought about amending legislation that prevent ministers from having conflict of interest, he said he would make the decision after the law took effect.

That will not be the case, if the Constitution Court ruled that the law was unconstitutional, he said.

He said the government would soon appoint a panel to consider Constitution amendment.

- The Nation

[sriracha john]

New ministers get ready for work in many different ways

New ministers of the People Power Party-led coalition government were abuzz with preparations yesterday for their first day of work, whether it was by seeking divine help, redecorating their offices, or calling official meetings. Seeking divine intervention is believed by many politicians to be a key element in ensuring their success, and the PPP ministers are no exception. A feng shui master was invited yesterday to give guidance on the interior decor in offices at the Ministry of Social Development and Human Security. The work tables were placed northwards to bring good luck while the placement of a shelf for a sacred object was done carefully with respect for the guardian spirits, the feng shui master said. At the Interior Ministry, cleaners sweated over their tasks while gardeners were busy with floral decorations to welcome Chalerm Yubamrung. However, Chalerm was reluctant to arrive at his office before what was deemed the auspicious moment.

Continued here:

http://www.bangkokpost.net/News/07Feb2008_news08.php

=========================================================

Presumably that "moment" isn't later this evening which would coincide with the time his son put a bullet in a policeman's head.

[jbowman1993]

Where are all the "Pro Thaksin" nuts, who should be rising up to support these new cabinet ministers? The silence is deafening.

[Payboy]

New Cabinet Appointed

at least the army can get back to thei real job..

[Old Man River]

Where are all the "Pro Thaksin" nuts, who should be rising up to support these new cabinet ministers? The silence is deafening.

At least Samak has a sense of humor in naming a doctor and a nurse to handle the ailing economy.

[A_Traveller]

However, the doc is in the house, new Finance Minister Surapong Suebwonglee has said he hopes the economy will grow by 6% this year. {4.7% 2007}.

Regards

[marshbags]

Minister of Justice?

Also, God help us all, Thaksin's lawyer is the new foreign minister. I have heard enough of that man's endless verbal diarrhea to last a lifetime.

There's a very specific reason for this and it's going to blow up in their faces.

How,s this for starters T.C.

The Nation, Thu, February 7, 2008 : Last updated 17:15 hours

http://www.nationmultimedia.com/2008/02/07...cs_30064675.php

Quote

Ousted PM should get red passport back : new FM

Ex-Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra has deserved his rights to get back his diplomatic passport that was revoked after the military junta took power, Foreign Minister Noppadon Pattama said Thursday.

"Due to the rules of laws and as long as other former prime ministers can keep their diplomatic passports, Khun Thaksin should get back his diplomatic passport," said Noppadon on his first day as foreign minister.

Noppadol was legal adviser and spokesman of Thaksin, who was ousted by a coup in 2006.

Foreign Ministry decided to cancel Thaksin's diplomatic passport, known as red passport, shortly after a Thai court charged Thaksin of abusing of power last year.

Noppadon said Thaksin is presumed innocent until proved guilty according to law."

by Supalak G Khundee

The Nation

Unquote

To highlight Noppadons last sentence

" Innocent until proved guilty according to law "

So what happened to Thaksins recognition ( total lack of )

How very sad that they should be allowed to say and get away with these double standards, especially when you consider all the human suferring and loss of life as a result of his / their refusal to acknowledge even the basic fundamentals of LAW according to not only international law but more importantly, constitutionally Thailand wise.

Ironical or what, F.Minister Noppadon......

marshbags and of it all.

Edited February 7, 2008 by marshbags

[A_Traveller]

But in the Passport thread Maybe he won't

Regards

[sriracha john]

Here's yet another ministry that's headed by someone with no background in the field...

Education Minister Accepts Lack of Experience in Education

The recently-appointed Education Minister paid homage at the ministry today on his first day in office and vowed to try his best to improve the country's education system, though he lacks experience.

At a meeting with officials of the Education Ministry, the new Minister and Deputy Prime Minister, Somchai Wongsawat, said he never expected to have the chance to run a key ministry as it is beyond his capability. However, the new education minister insisted he will push forward the government's education policies and help facilitate the performance of the state officials under his supervision.

Somchai is confident he will be able perform well in managing his ministry, although education-related agencies deem he has no experience in education management. He stated he will devote himself and do his best in his new job.

He also revealed that he is preparing to allocate a million computers for the schools upcountry, increase the number of government scholarships, and use new technology for the development of the country's human resources.

Prior to the meeting, Somchai and his two Deputy Ministers, Boonlue Prasertsopha and Pongsakorn Annopporn, paid homage to the shrine at the Education Ministry to mark their first day in the office.

Meanwhile, the ministry's Permanent Secretary, Jaruayporn Thoranin, bestowed a basket of flowers to deliver her congratulations to the newly appointed minister and deputies.

Jaruayporn believes the new Education Minister will be able to wipe out its stigma of being a low-grade ministry and says Somchai's judicial background will help improve the ethical system of its officials.

- Thailand Outlook

=========================================

It might help "wipe out its stigma of being a low-grade ministry" if the Education Minister actually had a clue. It goes to show what a priority the education of this nation is to the PPP aka Somchai's brother-in-law Thaksin.... actually, it's no different than when he was Education Minister.

[marshbags]

But in the Passport thread Maybe he won't

Regards

Sorry for additional reference to the D. Passport issue, personally i feel after much thought that my reply is more in tune with this thread and my points respond to the latest and more detailed article.

The thread title i am responding to is New Cabinet Appointed and the role of one particular minister who happens to be F.M.Noppadon

Regards reciprocated A.T.

marshbags

Edited February 7, 2008 by marshbags

[A_Traveller]

Wasn't meant as a 'wrong thread' type comment, apologies if it came across that way. Only pointing out that many statements are being contradicted within hours. Right now I'm not sure any of these individuals know which way is up.

Regards

PS The article was originally published mid afternoon, and does not appear, from memory, substantively different even allowing for the 17:+ timestamp. Interestingly the Manager article published around the same time was saying the opposite. On the timestamps point, looks like Bangkok Post has stopped that process for its breaking news today.

Edited February 7, 2008 by A_Traveller